Abstract:A male Labrador retriever of 9 years of age was presented with severe abdominal distension, exercise intolerance and inappetance. On physical examination, tachycardia, weak femoral pulse, fluid thrill on percussion of distended abdomen and dyspnoea were appreciated. Electrocardiography showed atrial fibrillation. In radiograph, cardiomegaly was noticed and vertebral heart score of 12 was measured. Echocardiography was performed.
The dog was diagnosed with Dilated cardiomyopathy. For long time support, it was treated with Pimobendan @ 0.25mg/kg b.wt BID P/O, Diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker @ 2mg/kg b.wt TID P/O along with enalapril maleate @ 0.5mg/kg b.wt and furosemide @ 1.5mg/kg b.wt. The owner was further informed that the treatment was to prolong the life span of dog with better quality of life.